For a week that was out of this world, I have one thing to say: save the astronomical dudes for outer space.

To the kids in Stucco, I commend your efforts. There was no way homecoming as we know it could have happened this year, and for that, you deserve to be recognized for your ingenious spin on a time honored tradition.

But I must be honest.

This homecoming week has left a bitter taste in my mouth. Not only was it a reminder of the rituals we’ve lost to the pandemic, but a greater divide between the cohorts already separating the student body.

For most of us, two days of half hearted celebration did little to boost our mood, and without the football game, the dance, or the ability to share this moment with our friends, the essence of an Eaglecrest homecoming was sadly replaced with a DJ in the courtyard and a plea to dress up at home.

With the lowest participation rate I have ever seen during a homecoming week, this blatant lack of school spirit has never been more understandable. 

Homecoming is about reveling in unity, celebrating one another, and taking pride in the community we have here. But with the unfortunate circumstances we currently face, it’s hard to feel like a community at all, let alone one we can connect with.

Still, this year’s valiant attempt at replicating what is arguably one of the best weeks of the school year must be appreciated. To have something as normal as any kind of homecoming was a great comfort, and I think our school did the best we could with the hand we were dealt.

My only hope is that the apathetic response of the student body to this week’s festivities can be forgiven. Though it’s no good crying over spilt milk, I couldn’t help thinking what my last homecoming could have been, had we really been able to do it right.

Homecoming is sacred, and for us seniors, this will be our last one. But it’s hard to truly get into the spirit of coming home, when you’re only coming twice a week.